Mapping of sex work hotspots to guide targeted HIV prevention: Evidence from eight Ukrainian cities
This study provides comprehensive mapping of sex work hotspots in Ukraine, revealing persistent gaps in HIV prevention for less visible and harder-to-reach SWs. Community-led mapping achieved high validation rates (86.8%) and identified substantial unmet needs in digital and concealed hotspots. Routine hotspot mapping, combined with engagement with SW communities, is essential for data-driven, equitable, and adaptive HIV responses in rapidly changing contexts.
Authors
- Olga Cheshun
- Kostyantyn Dumchev (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2862-4977)
- Oksana Pashchuk
- Oksana Kovtun (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7452-3889)
Institutions
- National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy (UA)
- Alliance for Public Health (UA)
Publication Details
- Journal
- PLoS ONE
- Published
- 2026-02-26
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0343803
- Primary Topic
- Sex work and related issues
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention